New look, mission for Arc of Monroe County

The Arc of Monroe County is announcing a rebranding initiative that involves a new mission, vision and purpose.

The organization, which supports people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, is unveiling a new logo and a new mission to create an inclusive society where the people they support may truly live integrated lives and reach their full potential.

And a new vision to provide a progressive community that welcomes diversity.

President and CEO Barbara Wale spoke at the Arc of Monroe's Lambert Campus on West Henrietta in Brighton .

Brighton Town Supervisor Bill Moehle says the Arc celebrates people of different abilities.

She says it's very important that staff, volunteers and people they support truly know what they do.

"To be sure that people are included in the community, and that they further their independence and that they can truly identify their skills, talent and abilities and use them throughout the Rochester community," she said.

The Arc's new purpose includes furthering opportunities for independence.

Brighton Town Supervisor Bill Moehle says the Arc's vision of diversity and inclusion are part of the core values of the town.

Damon Thomas says the Arc of Monroe is like his second home:

"What the Arc does in celebrating people of different abilities, helping to mainstream them, give them the independence and control of their lives. That fits in with exactly what we're trying to do as a community," he said.

The rebranding effort means that the Arc of Monroe is part of the state and national Arc.

For Damon Thomas, the Arc of Monroe a home away from home.

"My life is like, one is my family, two is the Arc. It's my second home," he said.

And that's a good example of the Arc's person-centered services and inclusion. Arc of Monroe President and CEO Barbara Wale says the rebranding is an opportunity for the Arc to reflect on who they are and what they do: